The Special Forces Command (KSK) today, together with Flensburg Technology Systems (FTS), for the first time presented the new air-landing assault and combat vehicle TAHR. The highly mobile vehicle was developed specifically to meet the needs of the special forces and is based on an Israeli system already in use with the country’s Special Forces.
The first proof-of-concept model was unveiled today at the opening of the 10th KSK Armaments Symposium in Altensteig-Wart by the commander of the Special Forces Command, Brigadier General Andreas Kühne.
KSK: Proven Technology from Israel
TAHR traces its origins to a field-tested off-road vehicle that was further developed specifically for the needs of the KSK. More precisely, it is a vehicle concept that has already proven itself with the Israeli special forces. The German version ultimately is based on the Israeli ZD from IAI Elta and is manufactured by Flensburg Technology Systems GmbH (FTS) as part of the German-Israeli joint venture.
The platform is characterized in particular by its exceptional weight-to-payload ratio. According to the company, the so-called Weight-to-Payload Ratio is almost one-to-one. This allows the vehicle, despite its light weight, to accommodate a wide range of equipment and weapon systems without sacrificing its high mobility. This very combination makes the TAHR particularly interesting for special forces who frequently switch between different mission profiles.
Two Variants for Different Missions
TAHR is procured in two configurations. The lightweight air-landing assault and combat vehicle (le LL EGF) serves as the actual combat platform and can be equipped with different weapons and mission-specific gear depending on the assignment. It is complemented by the lightweight air-landing support vehicle (le LL UstgFzg), which is primarily intended to transport materials and equipment. Both variants establish a new vehicle class within the Bundeswehr in the region of around 3.2 tonnes, tailored specifically to the needs of special forces.
In contrast to the Israeli base model, the Bundeswehr receives a version adapted to its requirements. The German TAHR is powered by a diesel engine, while the Israeli vehicle is equipped with a gasoline engine. The rollover protection also differs. The basic concept remains the same, so the German special forces can immediately benefit from the experiences Israeli units have already gathered with the platform.
Other Features of the TAHR
The open vehicle concept is designed to provide soldiers with a good all-round view while enabling the integration of different weapon systems. However, the focus of development was primarily on air mobility. Two vehicles can be transported simultaneously in the cargo hold of a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, the Bundeswehr’s future heavy-lift helicopter. The TAHR also fits into the currently available CH-53s. After landing, the vehicles should be ready for action within the shortest possible time – a capability of crucial importance for special forces.
“The KSK has the mission to conduct special forces operations successfully worldwide and under all conditions,” said Brigadier General Andreas Kühne at today’s introduction of the new vehicle. “For this, the KSK needs not only high mobility but also a variety of suitable means of transport depending on the situation, mission, and terrain. With TAHR we are getting an deployment and combat vehicle that is air-transportable and ready for use in any terrain.”
As early as October 2025, the Bundeswehr Procurement Office BAAINBw had already concluded a framework agreement with FTS for the delivery of up to 200 vehicle systems. The presentation of the first proof-of-concept prototype, according to the company, even came ahead of the originally agreed schedule.
“We are proud to contribute directly to the future readiness of the Bundeswehr and the KSK by presenting the first proof-of-concept ahead of schedule,” said Jörg Kamper, CEO of FTS. The achieved project status is the result of close cooperation between industry, BAAINBw, and the end users.
High Mobility for Special Forces
Light, air-transportable vehicles have long been part of the standard equipment of Western special forces. They combine high mobility across rugged terrain with great strategic mobility and enable immediate deployment after transport by helicopter or transport aircraft. With the introduction of the CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopter, such systems gain even more significance for the Bundeswehr, as they allow rapid deployment of special forces over long distances and immediate readiness after landing.
With the TAHR, the KSK now has a deployment vehicle specifically tailored to these requirements, combining mobility, air-transportability, and the integration of different weaponry in a single system, while drawing on the direct experiences of Israeli special forces.
Author: Dorothee Frank, Online Editor-in-Chief
